There is no chance the MGM Grand, which dominates the northeast corner of Las Vegas Boulevard and Tropicana Avenue (the busiest intersection on the Strip), will ever become dated. In fact, the iconic resort is in the process of getting a glamorous makeover. All of the rooms are being modernized and several of the property's entertainment, dining and nightlife experiences are being rejuvenated. Construction is scheduled for completion in late 2012.
Generally speaking, the MGM Grand is moving away from the old Hollywood theme the resort embodied when it opened in 1993. Think of this massive renovation project as a contemporary interpretation of the classic attitude of that bygone era.
However, guests can always count on unparalleled entertainment at the resort. First and foremost, the MGM Grand is an entertainment destination. Its 16,000-seat Grand Garden Arena hosts concerts by the world's top artists, championship boxing matches, award shows and so much more. Magician David Copperfield is a regular headliner in the more intimate Hollywood Theatre -- and he isn't disappearing any time soon. In addition to “the greatest illusionist of our time,” the venue hosts an assortment of talented musicians and comedians.
The MGM Grand is also home to the Cirque du Soleil production "KÀ." This show is a visual feast. It's comprised of acrobatic feats and often compared to a martial arts movie -- just in theater format. A bevy of French beauties, who demonstrate "the artistry of the nude," appear nightly in "MGM Grand's Crazy Horse Paris." And Brad Garrett's Comedy Club is now open and hosts an array of nationally known comedians who will have you doubled over in fits of laughter.
With a whopping 19 restaurants, you can have a taste of the finest cuisine from around the world at the MGM Grand. Many acclaimed international chefs helm one-of-a-kind dining experiences here.
Joël Robuchon is the namesake restaurant of the legendary chef who has been showered with awards. His French cuisine creations are like works of art. Guests can choose to indulge in a tasting menu or order à la carte in either the elegant main room or a garden-designed dining room. Next door, L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon offers a similarly divine menu, but in a less formal atmosphere.
At CRAFTSTEAK, Tom Colicchio has the preparation of steaks, chops and seafood down to a science. The culinary superstar Michael Mina boasts two esteemed restaurants: SEABLUE and Nobhill Tavern. You can indulge in the richness of Creole cuisine at Emeril Lagasse's New Orleans Fish House. Another imaginative menu -- with items like his famous wood-fired pizzas as well as pastas, grilled fish and succulent meat -- is available in the Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill. And then there's Pearl, Diego, The Grand Wok and Sushi Bar, Fiamma Trattoria & Bar, Shibuya...and the list of fabulous restaurants goes on and on.
Casual meals are available too at the MGM Grand. The jungle-themed Rainforest Café provides a wild time for all ages, thanks to animatronic critters. For an inexpensive breakfast, lunch or dinner, head to the Studio Café or the MGM Grand Buffet, which dishes up more than 30 different entrées, pastas, casseroles and fresh veggies.
In addition, quick bites are available at the Farmer's Market Food Court, Tom Colicchio's 'wichcraft sandwich shop and three sprawling Starbucks. Or grab a quick treat at Blizz Frozen Yogurt and the decadent Sugar Factory retail store.
For relaxation, there are five outdoor swimming pools in the 6.6-acre Grand Pool Complex, complete with a 1,000-foot river and waterfalls. And summertime always brings steamy fun, courtesy of WET Republic. The chic ultra pool provides guests with a nightlife-like atmosphere featuring private bungalows, cocktail service and DJ-spun music.
Speaking of nightlife, there are virtually a million places to drink, dance and party at the MGM Grand. At Tabú Ultra Lounge, your senses will be stimulated by creative cocktails, video displays and European-influenced house music. The MGM Grand's center bar, Centrifuge, and the lobby bar, Zuri, are two great spots for meeting up with friends and family. And in late 2012, Hakkasan Las Vegas, a huge new Cantonese-themed restaurant and nightclub with spectacular indoor and outdoor views of the Strip, will open and revolutionize the city's nightlife scene.
Among the MGM Grand's other offerings are a comprehensive casino floor, the Grand Spa (try The Dreaming Ritual, its two-hour signature treatment that includes Australian Aboriginal massage techniques and other forms of all-over pampering), Cristophe Salon and a huge fitness center.
If you love the TV show "CSI," don't miss CSI: The Experience. It lets you jump into the role of a crime scene investigator and piece together evidence in order to solve one of three mysteries. Plus, the MGM Grand houses the research center CBS Television City, where you can be among the first to give feedback about TV pilots, video games and consumer products.
Those in the mood to shop can browse through the stores along Studio Walk in the main thoroughfare, explore MGM Underground on the lower level of the main lobby or check out a variety of souvenir outlets located throughout the premises.
The race and sports book at the MGM Grand is the place to catch your favorite sporting event. Brimming with energy and excitement, it features 17 betting counters, comfortable seating, a bar and the adjacent Stage Deli. Video walls and high-tech media are spread throughout the room and exclusive "skyboxes" add to the experience.
Accommodations at the MGM Grand are as varied as the rest of the property's offerings, ranging in size and price. As mentioned above, there is a $160 million remodeling project under way that includes 3,570 guest rooms and 642 suites in the hotel’s main tower. The redesign utilizes a warm color palette with contemporary furnishings. It will also incorporate environmentally responsible elements such as LED lighting, improved thermostats, solar shades, upgraded faucets and showers, and bath amenities that are 100 percent biodegradable.
The MGM Grand is weaving a modern vision while respecting its entertainment roots. It continues to elevate itself as a tour de force of hospitality, ambiance and design in Las Vegas. And visitors of all walks of life will soon be toasting the resort's latest accomplishments.
-- By Renée LiButti
